Preface
The VisiCalc program makes a computer as easy to
use as a calculator, and it gives you far more power than a
calculator does. This little book is intended to show you
how you can use the VisiCalc program effectively. This book
is designed so you do not have to have any previous
experience with computers to use the VisiCalc program.
The first chapter sketches the kind of situation in
which the VisiCalc program excels. The next chapter shows
you how to start using the Apple II Plus Computer. Then we
start looking at the specifics of using the VisiCalc
program. Although it is easier to keep reading the chapters
in the order in which they appear, you can often skip ahead
if you wish to look into some feature of special interest to
you. A comprehensive index will help you find your way.
Most of the features of the VisiCalc program are
presented while solving a sequence of realistic problems,
such as evaluating the accumulation in an IRA (Individual
Retirement Account). Some of these problems are solved a
second time, so you can better appreciate the contrast
between different approaches.
Almost everyone has to come to grips with numbers, lots
of them. The VisiCalc program is such a powerful assistant
in helping you manage numeric information that you should
seriously consider equipping yourself with this tool.
Perhaps this book will help you make such a decision.
Although this book contains detailed instructions on
how you can yourself do everything that is shown, an
optional diskette may be used to reduce the typing which
would otherwise be required. See the appendix for further
information. It is assumed that you have already purchased
the appropriate version of the VisiCalc software. If not,
you may obtain it from your Apple II Computer supplier.
1982 Wm. C. Brown Company Publishers
Edouard J. Desautels
Microcomputer Power Series
VisiCalc for the Apple® II Plus Computer
